In Two Days

If you've already made your way through "The Best of Vancouver in 1 Day," you'll find that your second full-day tour takes in a roster of new sights and adventures. Today's itinerary will give you an entertaining handle on Vancouver's past, and introduce you to some of Vancouver's most appealing neighborhoods.

1. Gastown & the Steam Clock

Gastown is the oldest part of Vancouver, a low-rise brick district from the late 19th century, now making a comeback after years of neglect. Stroll down Water Street, timing your visit so you'll be in front of the famous steam clock when it steams and chimes at noon. You might also want to shop for a piece of First Nations art at one of Gastown's specialty galleries.

2. Salt

If it's lunchtime, head over to one of Gastown's smart new eateries. Salt (tel. 604/633-1912), in Blood Alley, is Vancouver's only charcuterie, serving cured meats, soup, and artisan cheeses.

3. Chinatown

Vancouver's Chinatown lies just east of Gastown, and you can walk there or drive. Though parts of Chinatown are touristy, the street markets are lively and authentic. Don't miss the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

4. Granville Island

You can easily drive to Granville Island via the Granville Bridge, but it's more fun to hop on a miniferry from Yaletown Landing and take the 10-minute trip across False Creek. The public market is pure sensory overload, crammed with every kind of produce, seafood, and food product imaginable, while the area around it is a browser's heaven of shops, galleries, and outdoor-adventure outfitters.

5. Kitsilano

You can drive or walk to Kitsilano, the funky upbeat neighborhood west of Granville Island. Check out the buffed beach scene at scenic Kitsilano Beach, facing English Bay. One of the world's largest freshwater pools is here if you want a summertime swim.

6. Vancouver Art Gallery

You can drive or take a no. 4 or 7 bus on 4th Avenue for the 15-minute ride back to downtown Vancouver. Head for the Vancouver Art Gallery, and make your way specifically to the museum's collection of hauntingly atmospheric paintings by B.C. native Emily Carr. Her moodily expressive works sum up all that is grand and glorious in the Pacific Northwest landscape.

7. Dinner

Cap off your day with a memorable meal at West, 2881 Granville St. (tel. 604/738-8938), a culinary high point of the city and winner of Vancouver magazine's Best Restaurant Award in 2007.